Gay Byrne
Legendary broadcaster Gay Byrne (81) is recovering in hospital tonight after he suffered a heart attack.
In a statement issued by RTÉ last night, his family said he is on the mend and asked for privacy at this time.
“RTE can confirm that Gay Byrne suffered a heart attack yesterday and is recovering well in hospital. The Byrne family have asked for privacy at this time.
“All his friends and colleagues across RTE are thinking of him and wish him all the best with his recovery,” said the statement.
Byrne previously suffered a terrifying health scare at his home in Sandymount in 2011.
The radio and TV host was rushed to St Vincent's A&E after he suddenly found himself unable to breathe.
"I felt that my lungs were made of concrete and there was nothing going in. I thought I was going to die, I just couldn't breathe," he said at the time. Aside from this former incident Byrne maintains that he has always enjoyed "robust good health all my life".
Byrne spent this year's festive period surrounded by his family and close friends.
“I will be at home,” he told the Irish Independent earlier this month.
“I will just sit back, let Christmas happen and enjoy all the relaxing and festivities before The Meaning of Life starts back again.”